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In the last section of the four-part series on gutter materials, copper gutters were explored as a high-end, elegant option that can last the lifetime of a home. This third installment examines steel gutters, known for their sturdiness and strength.
Steel gutters can either be stainless or galvanized. Stainless steel gutters are very uncommon, mostly due to their high costs. While they never rust and can maintain their sheen for years, the associated cost makes them off-limits for many homeowners.
Galvanized steel is coated with a thin layer of zinc, which strengthens the metal and makes it resistant to rust.
Because galvanized steel gutters are more popular than those fashioned from stainless steel, let’s examine the advantages and disadvantages of galvanized steel gutters:
Average Life Expectancy: 15-20 Years
Advantages of Galvanized Steel Gutters
- Resistant to rust
- Outperforms aluminum when it comes to resisting damage and thermal warping
- Can be customized on-site into seamless gutters that fit perfectly on your home
Disadvantages of Galvanized Steel Gutters
- Protective layer of zinc will eventually wear off, making the gutters susceptible to rusting
- Difficult to tell whether or not zinc layer has been compromised, so without periodic inspections, rust could go unnoticed for longer periods of time
- Heavier metal, making installation more difficult
Because galvanized steel and aluminum gutters live in a similar price range and are durable metals, many homeowners find themselves choosing between the two. What galvanized gutters lack in rust resistance, they make up for in sturdiness.
Aluminum gutters, alternatively, are more susceptible to dents and bending but will never rust. Talking these options over with a gutter professional will help you choose the material that suits your home environment and needs best.
To learn more about additional rain gutter materials, check out our blog articles detailing the advantages and disadvantages of aluminum, copper, and vinyl gutters.
Check back on the EBSCO Research blog later in the week for the last installment on gutter materials, which examines vinyl gutters, a popular choice for do-it-yourselfers.